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Lancashire-born designer Charlotte Taylor is known for her quirky prints, including penguins, vintage robots, bees, ants, and other surprising things. After finishing school, Charlotte moved to London to pursue a career in fashion, where she eventually graduated from the prestigious Central Saint Martin’s. Before starting her own brand, she worked with a number of designers, including Marcus Constable, Frost French, and Luella. In 2009, Charlotte left Luella to start her own line, which launched at London Fashion Week in February 2010.
Based for a while on the Isle of Wight, Charlotte has built her brand with an inherent sense of fun and sheer design. Her creations are impeccably tailored but in memorable shapes with unusual designs and bold colours. Featured in the Vauxhall Fashion Scout exhibition in 2011, Charlotte also recently launched a line with Anthropologie, Charlotte by Charlotte Taylor.
Glass had the chance to sit down with Charlotte to find out more about her what inspires her.
How did you get your start as a designer?
I went to art college in London and worked as an intern throughout my time there. It’s all about experience and then you just go from there.
Where do you do most of your creative work?
I spend most of my time in our studio in Shepherd’s Bush, London. But, it is not quite the same as when I lived on the Isle of Wight. I am moving into a small cottage soon and am turning one of the rooms into a study, which I hope will become my creative epicenter.
You are well known for your quirky prints, including penguins, vintage robots, ants, and bees. How do you come up with ideas for these unusual designs?
Everything and anything. I was inspired by the way grannies walk for the penguins and an old pencil sharpener that I bought an ex-boyfriend for the robots. I have started to take small trips to design on. So, often I am influenced by places, the people, and their culture.
What is your biggest inspiration?
I think anything with a history – old things and things that are ugly/beautiful.
Who is the Charlotte Taylor woman?
She is an energetic, endearing, quirky, and spirited woman with a joie de vivre.
What do you feel are the main challenges that young designers face these days?
The biggest problem is cash flow.
How do you think the UK market measures up against the US market in terms of
interest in authentic design?
We have had a phenomenal response from the US market. It is very exciting. The UK
market is much smaller .
You are working on a number of collaborations at the moment, including a collection for Anthropologie. Are there any other upcoming projects that you can share with Glass readers?
We have just launched a swimwear line within the mainline label. It is very exciting.
by Jessica Quillin